Total Protein

Understanding Total Protein:

• Total Protein = Albumin + Globulins
• High total protein with normal albumin → elevated globulins (immune/inflammatory response)
• Low total protein with low albumin → liver dysfunction or protein malnutrition
• Dehydration artificially raises both albumin and total protein

If Elevated:

• Ensure adequate hydration before blood draw
• Check albumin/globulin ratio — if globulins are high, investigate inflammation (CRP, ESR)
• Rarely significant in isolation for enhanced athletes on high-protein diets

If Low:

• Increase protein intake (1.6-2.2g/kg/day)
• Investigate liver function (albumin production) and kidney function (protein loss)
• Rule out malabsorption (GI symptoms, digestive issues)

Lifestyle:

• Maintain consistent hydration before testing
• High protein diets commonly push total protein to upper range — this is expected

References:

• Cabrera, D., Arab, J. P., & Arrese, M. (2019). UDCA, NorUDCA, and TUDCA in liver diseases: A review of their mechanisms of action and clinical applications. Handbook of Experimental Pharmacology, 256, 237-264. DOI: 10.1007/164_2019_241